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The annual American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control: 2005 report has been released.  This report card analyzes state tobacco control laws in four key areas – smokefree air, tobacco program funding, cigarette excise tax and  youth access to tobacco.  New York received a failing grade for not adequately funding its statewide tobacco control program.  Despite receiving a “B” in cigarette excise tax for having the fifth highest excise tax, New York State has lost ground to other states as the nation’s average state tax rises each year.  On a positive note, New York did receive an “A” in smokefree air and an “A” for youth access to tobacco.

This report provides strong support for an idea being floated by our governor to raise the cigarette tax from $1.50 to $3.00 outside of New York City, where the tax is already at $3.00.  Achieving a uniform $3.00 tax across New York State will not only discourage more and more youth and adults from smoking, but can also be used to fund and implement strong tobacco control programs in our state.  A reduction in tobacco use saves thousands of lives and produces enormous declines in state health care costs and other tobacco-related expenditures. 

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended a blueprint to save lives that includes a comprehensive approach in Community, Chronic Disease and School Programs, Counter Marketing and Cessation services.  It is critical that New York invest revenue from tobacco taxes and tobacco settlement dollars to prevent our children from becoming addicted to tobacco and help adult smokers kick the habit. 

Please take a moment to send the attached letter to Governor Pataki and your State Legislators, for a call to action on raising the statewide cigarette tax and investing revenues in tobacco control programs.